Yeonsoon Chang

Mesh to speak of harmony

• Yeonsoon's textile sculptures are an exploration of the universe
• The transparency of her works plays with pondering and reflections
• Her work is a visualisation of humanity

Yeonsoon Chang is a textile artist who expresses vitality through the use of alternative materials. She favours using abacá fabric and Teflon mesh, which have the right density for air to pass through, and create a 3D structure that is see-through. In her craft, Yeonsoon applies techniques and processes traditionally used in the making of Korean clothes, that she inherited from her mother and grandmothers. There are countless repetitions in the manufacturing process, mainly dyeing, ironing, starching, cutting and sewing. Yeonsoon is highly skilled in these practices, that require her to introspect while doing simple and repetitive tasks.

Interview

©Yeonsoon Chang

©Yeonsoon Chang

What drew you to the material abacá?

I am interested in Korean traditional fabrics, such as ramie and hemp, which are expensive, so I found an alternative material, abacá. The transparency of the fabric varies according to the density of the yarn’s warp and weft. I like its see-through properties.

What is the motive of your work?

I think artists are seekers of truth. I have been intensively practising deep breathing for over a decade years to achieve a mindset where mind and body are one. From this experience, together with that of the East Asian tradition, I discovered this type of work.

Can you explain your recent signature works?

My signature work uses abacá fabric to convey continuity: connecting the past, present and future. My recent work with Teflon mesh is an attempt to reinterpret the traditional technique of using gold leaf.

How do you define your work?

Although the material used in my works is different, the spirit of the art is the same. The works, which started from my heart, lead to the reality of my life, my family, Korea, the Earth, and the universe – my entire being.

Yeonsoon Chang is an she began her career in

Works

©Yeonsoon Chang

©Yeonsoon Chang

©Yeonsoon Chang

©Yeonsoon Chang

©Yeonsoon Chang

Where